IN STALLATIO N O F S H EET Se c t i o n t hre e

Section three 3.1 RECEIPT & STORAGE

On receipt of rolls:

INSTAL L AT I O N O F >>Check that colours correspond to those ordered, that quantities are
correct and that there is no damage.

S HEET >>In particular, check that rolls are from one batch, if that was requested
on the order.

The installation of Homogeneous,
Heterogeneous, Rubber and Safety
vinyl sheet.
>>On arrival at site, the rolls should be safely secured in an upright
position; (2m widths only) and stored, together with the adhesive, at a
minimum temperature of 18ºC for at least 24 hours before laying.
>>Inflammable adhesives require special storage conditions. Contact the
adhesive manufacturer or see current literature for details.

>>To achieve best results, site conditions should be as described in

BS 8203 or prevailing local/national standards. A working temperature
of between 18ºC and 27ºC is required for at least 48 hours prior
to, and during, the installation period; and for 24 hours afterwards.
Conditioning should be carried out in the same room or areas as the
installation, to prevent thermally induced dimensional changes.

3.2 PRIOR TO INSTALLATION (UNDERFLOOR HEATING)

On installations where underfloor heating is used:
>>The system should be fully tested and commissioned prior to the
flooring installation commencing.

>>Underfloor Heating systems should be switched off and be fully cooled

for a minimum of 48 hours prior to the installation commencing.
The system should remain off and fully cooled during the installation
and for a minimum of 48 hours afterwards. It should then be slowly
brought back up to the working temperature incrementally over
several days.

>>A maximum subfloor temperature; (at the adhesive line) of 27ºC should
never be exceeded. Specialist high temperature adhesives should be
used in areas with underfloor heating, direct sunlight, and areas of
high solar gain. Please refer to the Polyflor Approved Adhesive List or
contact your adhesive manufacturer for more information.

3. 3 PREPARATION OF WORK AREA

The work area should now be prepared to receive the sheet flooring.
>>Ensure that all other trades have completed their work and removed
all their equipment and materials.

>>Remove all debris and vacuum the whole subfloor area.

>>Check the condition of the subfloor and make good as necessary.

I N STA L L ATI ON OF SHE E T Se ctio n th ree
KEY POINT
Commencement of work
is deemed by many as
acceptance of the site
conditions as suitable for
laying floor coverings.
3.4 LAYOUT OF SHEET
3.5 SLABBING THE SHEET
3.6 FITTING THE FIRST LENGTH
>>Stone or power grind any cementitious subfloor to remove any ‘nibs’
or ridges.
>>Remove any surface contaminants, which may affect adhesion. Sweep
or vacuum again prior to laying.
>>If required by the contract, or if in doubt, check the moisture content
of the subfloor and record the results and method used. Good lighting
is essential.
>>It is important to note that commencement of work is deemed by
many as acceptance of the site conditions as suitable for laying floor
coverings.

Further information on subfloors and subfloor preparations
can be found in Section two.
>>The architect may have provided a drawing showing the direction in
which the material should be laid. In this case, lay the sheet as directed.
>>Where the architect has left the direction to the discretion of the
flooring contractor; at the tender stage show in which direction the
material will be laid and state that your estimate is based on this.
>>Always pay particular attention to where seams will fall, avoiding such
occurrences as seams in the centre of doorways.
>>If large windows are installed, minimise the effect of the joints by
laying towards the window.
>>Polyflor recommends that all Polyflor sheet flooring be rolled out face
upward, taking care not to damage the surface, and cut approximately
to size.
>>Allowance of at least 75mm should be made at the ends for trimming
in, the slabs should then be left overnight for 24 hours, to condition at
a minimum temperature of 18ºC.
Figure 3.1 Lining the first sheet
Figure 3.1 Lining up the First Sheet
IN STALLATIO N O F S H EET Se c t i o n t hre e
>>Place the first sheet in position next to the wall with the outer edge
approximately 15mm from the nearest point.
>>Adjust the lie of the sheet so that the inner edge is parallel with the
axis of the room (Figure 3.1).
>>Depending upon the depth of the recesses, use either a bar scriber or a
pair of scribers to trace the profile of the wall. The scribers should be
set to allow for the deepest recess or rake of the wall. Holding the
scribers vertically and square to the edge, trace the wall profile onto
the face of the sheet (Figure 3.2). With this method, all irregularities of
the wall will be accurately reproduced onto the surface of the sheet. If
the scribed line is difficult to see due to the colour or decoration, rub
suitably contrasting chalk dust into the line to highlight it.
Figure 3.2 Scribing the wall profile
>>Ease the sheet away from the wall and, using a hook blade trimming
knife, cut off the excess material to the scribed line. Slide the sheet
back against the wall and check the fit, making any minor adjustments
as necessary.
>>When satisfied that the fit on the first edge is correct, use a pencil to
trace the opposite edge onto the subfloor (line A-B in Figure 3.3).
>>In the centre of the room, draw a line on both the sheet and subfloor
square to the main axis of the sheet (line C-D in Figure 3.3).
Figure3.3
Figure 3.3Marking
Markingthethe position
position
I N STA L L ATI ON OF SHE E T Se ctio n th ree
>>Keeping the inner edge of the sheet on line A-B, slide the sheet back to
KEY POINT
clear the wall at one end of the room.
If fitting to set-in coving,
>>Set the scribers to the distance now between lines C and D (Figure 3.4).
the same principles apply
Trace the end wall profile and cut to fit as described earlier.
but a reverse scriber
>>Repeat for the other end of the sheet. Once completed, the whole sheet
must be used to trace the
– when slid back into position – should fit the wall profiles exactly.
toe onto the sheet.
It is normal to free
hand cut to the coving,
allowing 12mm overlap
for final trimming in.
Figure 3.4 Setting the scriber
3.7 FITTING SUBSEQUENT LENGTHS
>>Place the second length parallel to the first length, with a minimum of
10mm overlap along the adjoining edges or overlap of selvedge.
>>On the opposite side, trace the edge along the whole length onto the
subfloor. In the middle, draw a line C-D at right angles to the main axis,
as previously described.
>>Using the longitudinal line as a guide, slide back the sheet from the
end wall and fit as described in Section 3.6.
>>Repeat for the opposite end.
>>Repeat the sequence for all remaining lengths.
>>On the final length, which abuts the opposite wall, fit as described for
the first length (Section 3.6).
3.8 ALIGNMENT OF DECORATION (HETEROGENEOUS RANGES ONLY)
This type of floor covering features a print layer with a regular, repeat
decoration (e.g. wood plank). With wood effect designs:
>>To maximise the final appearance of the installation and to ensure the
decorative effect is not lost, it is important that care is taken to align
the decoration of each adjacent sheet.
>>The edge of the printed plank can be used in the lengthwise direction
as a guide.
The label and printed information on the backing of the sheet must be
checked and the product reverse laid when instructed.
IN STALLATIO N O F S H EET Se c t i o n t hre e
3.9 CUTTING IN THE SEAMS
Polyflor recommends that all Polyflor sheet floor coverings are welded.
Trimming off the factory edges and seam cutting is a prerequisite to
enable successful grooving and welding.
Note: The seams should be cut before the adhesive is applied.
Figure 3.5 Cutting in the seams
3.10 ADHERING THE SHEET
Use of the correct adhesives is of paramount importance for the
installation to be successful. Polyflor provide a comprehensive approved
adhesive list available at polyflor.com or by contacting the Polyflor
Customer Technical Services Department (CTSD).
In areas subjected to direct sunlight or extremes/fluctuations in
temperatures, Polyflor always recommends the use of an approved
polyurethane; epoxy or suitable high temperature adhesive. Polyflor
provides this information only as guidance. The legal responsibility for
the supply and performance is that of the adhesive manufacturer.
Prior to adhering the sheet, it is important to read and understand the
adhesive manufacturer’s instructions, recommendations and safety
advice. You need to know the hazards and limitations of the adhesive,
especially the open time.
>>Spread the adhesive using a suitable trowel to the manufacturer’s
recommendations ensuring that the correct notch size is maintained
throughout the installation. If the notch shows signs of wear the trowel
should be renewed immediately.
>>If pressure sensitive adhesive is used the resultant serrated adhesive
KEY POINT edges should be flattened with a lambswool roller pre-wetted with
Always follow the adhesive.
approved adhesive
>>Never spread more adhesive than can be laid within the open time.
manufacturer’s
Polyflor does not recommend any method of adhesive application,
instructions closely. such as spraying, which cannot guarantee the spread rate.
I N STA L L ATI ON OF SHE E T Se ctio n th ree
>>After each section has been laid, with the exception of the perimeter,
thoroughly roll the sheet in both directions with a 68kg articulated
floor roller. Repeat for each section until the main field of sheet has
been laid.
>>When spreading dispersion based adhesives on impervious or
non-porous bases; (including bases where a surface applied damp
proof membrane or moisture vapour suppressant has been applied) it
is important to apply a suitable smoothing compound of not less than
3mm thickness. Failure to apply the correct depth of smoothing
compound can result in moisture becoming trapped between the sheet
and the impervious or non-porous base. This can ultimately lead to
failures in the adhesive bond and in some cases discolouration of the
vinyl sheet products.
Figure 3.6 Spread the adhesive
>>The smoothing underlayment or adhesive supplier will provide details
on which product(s) within their range should be used to suit the end
use application and subfloor construction, and where applicable details
of which primer should be used.
>>Adhesive selection should be based on both the floor covering;
substrate type and site conditions. Always select an adhesive from
the Polyflor Approved Adhesive list. If in doubt about adhesive choice
please contact Polyflor CTSD on +44 (0) 161 767 1912.
3.10.1 Premature trafficking of newly laid floors
Early trafficking may disturb the adhesive bond and weaken it, resulting
in the associated problems of tracking, indentation, debonding etc. After
the sheet has been installed, only light foot traffic should be allowed for
at least 24 hours. Furniture etc. should only be returned after this time.
The material should be protected with hardboard or plywood for at least
48 hours if subject to heavy trafficking.
IN STALLATIO N O F S H EET Se c t i o n t hre e
3.11 PATTERN TEMPLATE METHOD
Areas which call for a considerable amount of fitting around obstacles,
or which are too confined to lay down a sheet for fitting by normal
methods, can be dealt with by templating the floor in felt paper.
For new buildings consider coming to an agreement with the
main contractor to fit fixtures such as WCs and sinks after the
vinyl has been laid.
>>Dry fit the area with felt paper, leaving a gap of 15mm to 20mm around
obstructions and walls.
>>Draw around the fittings using a suitable measuring and marking
device. Mark the template ‘This Side Up’.
>>Place the sheet in a larger area with the face uppermost. Place the
template on top ensuring the direction of decoration is correct. Secure
Learn
how to use the template firmly in position and mark the position of all obstacles
templates on the using the template as a guide.
3 & 4 day Polyflor
>>Using a sharp trimming knife, cut the sheet to the marked lines and fit
Floor Laying
into position.
Courses
Do not use the felt paper template as an underlay.
3.12 PREPARATION FOR SKIRTING PROFILE
>>Ensure that all surfaces are firm, dry and free of dust, grease and oil.
>>Fair faced brickwork or block work should have a skim coat applied,
as this provides a smooth, firm surface of known porosity which will
minimise adhesive usage and improve adhesion. Alternatively, 5.5mm
thick plywood can be cut into appropriate width strips and then
securely fixed to the block work to provide a smooth surface onto
which the skirting can be fitted.
>>Surfaces may require priming prior to application.
>>All painted surfaces must be stripped back and wire brushed to
remove all traces of paint as this can impair adhesion.
3.13 SITE FORMED COVED SKIRTINGS
Polyflor fully flexible flooring, in conjunction with the Polyflor Ejecta
cove former range (see also Section 11) can be used to create site
formed coved skirting to form a hygienic watertight finish.
>>Adhere the sections of cove former using an approved contact
adhesive. Use a mitre-block to accurately cut internal and external
corners and only adjust for length on straight cuts.
I N STA L L ATI ON OF SHE E T Se ctio n th ree IN STALLATIO N O F S H EET Se c t i o n t hre e

3.13.2 Fitting with sit-on capping strip (Type CS) Figure 3.7
ACOUSTIC FLOOR
Polyflor Acoustic Flooring >>Mark the walls around the room to the height the coving will reach.
ranges are not normally Minimum 100mm or as directed.

site formed. For further >>Apply a Polyflor approved contact adhesive to the face of the cove
advice contact Polyflor former and up to the marked line on the wall. Coat the back of the
CTSD +44 (0) 161 767 1912 sheet with the contact adhesive and leave both to dry.

>>When dry, push the sheet into place and roll with a hand roller to
ensure even contact.

Figure 3.7 Taper towards a doorway
>>To prevent a difficult fit, and potential weak spot near doorways, cut
away the back edge of the cove former on a taper for 150mm so that
there is minimal cove former near the doorway (Figure 3.7). Heating
the cove former will enable the shape to be formed but do not use a
naked flame.
>>Using a straight edge and sharp knife, trim off the excess back to the
required height as described earlier.
>>Using a piece of capping strip, mark where the strip overlaps the wall
and sheet. Apply a Polyflor approved contact adhesive between the
lines and to the back of the capping strip. When dry, push into place.

3.13.1 Fitting Ejecta capping strip (type CS-N) Figure 3.6

>>Mark the walls around the room to the height the coving will reach.
KEY POINT Minimum 100mm or as directed.
Use only the Contact
>>Place the sheet to the walls and mark to the same height as previous.
Adhesives that appear Using a straight edge and sharp knife, trim off the excess.
on the Polyflor Approved
>>Pull back the sheet from the walls. Fit the capping strip to the wall with
Adhesive List relevant to
a Polyflor approved contact adhesive so that the top of the sheet will
the product installed.
sit inside the cap. Figure 3.7 CS Capping strip

>>Using the Polyflor approved contact adhesive, apply to the face of the
cove former and up to the capping strip. Coat the back of the sheet 3.14 FITTING TO CERAMIC WALL TILES (CT strip) Figure 3.8
with contact adhesive and leave both to dry.
For the junction between site formed coved skirting and ceramic wall
>>When dry, push the sheet into place and tuck the top edge into the tiles, Polyflor Ejecta CT strip should be used.
capping strip. Roll with a hand roller to ensure even contact.

Figure 3.6 CS-N capping strips Figure 3.8 Fitting to Ceramic tiles
I N STA L L ATI ON OF SHE E T Se ctio n th ree IN STALLATIO N O F S H EET Se c t i o n t hre e

The flexible section is designed to accept ceramic tiles on one side and
various gauges of material on the other.

>>The Polyflor CT strip should be adhered using a Polyflor approved

contact adhesive.

>>The edge between the CT strip and the ceramic tiles should be grouted.

>>The Polyflor sheet should be fitted into the bottom edge of the
CT strip and adhered to the wall using a contact adhesive as
recommended by Polyflor. A thin bead of mastic sealant should be run
along the underside edge of the CT strip and the Polyflor sheet.

3.15 FITTING OF AN EXTERNAL CORNER (Wrap around method)

Welded external corners can be prone to damage from wheeled traffic.

To prevent this, use the ‘wrap around’ method (illustrated in Figure 3.9).

Figure 3.9 External corners ‘wrap around method’

 For further details on recommended finishes refer

to Section eleven.

Customer Technical Services Department

Tel: +44 (0) 161 767 1912
Email: tech@polyflor.com